Unraveling The Secrets: Toyota Highlander Vs Honda Passport – Unmasking The Ultimate Family Hauler

When it comes to seven-seater SUVs that combine rugged capability with family-friendly features, the Toyota Highlander and Honda Passport stand out as two of the most compelling options in the market. Both vehicles offer spacious interiors, impressive performance, and a suite of advanced safety technologies. However, there are subtle differences between the two that may influence your buying decision. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the Toyota Highlander against the Honda Passport, examining their key features, performance metrics, and overall value to determine which SUV reigns supreme.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency: Highlander’s Hybrid Edge vs Passport’s V6 Power

The Toyota Highlander offers a choice of two powertrains: a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, and a hybrid system that combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, generating a combined 243 horsepower. The Honda Passport, on the other hand, is powered by a single 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Highlander Hybrid shines with an impressive EPA-estimated 36 mpg city/35 mpg highway, while the Highlander V6 returns 21 mpg city/29 mpg highway. The Passport, with its V6 engine, offers 19 mpg city/24 mpg highway.

Interior Space and Comfort: Highlander’s Roominess vs Passport’s Sporty Cabin

Both the Highlander and Passport offer spacious interiors with three rows of seating. The Highlander, however, has a slight edge in terms of overall passenger and cargo space. Its second-row seats slide and recline, providing ample legroom and comfort for passengers. The third row, while not as spacious as the second row, can still accommodate adults comfortably. The Passport’s cabin is more driver-centric, with a sportier design and a focus on the front seats. The second-row seats are spacious, but the third row is best suited for children or occasional use.

Features and Technology: Highlander’s Advanced Safety Suite vs Passport’s Off-Road Prowess

The Toyota Highlander comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which includes lane departure alert, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Passport also offers a range of safety features, including Honda Sensing, which includes similar technologies as the Highlander’s safety suite.

In terms of infotainment, the Highlander features an 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The Passport has a slightly larger 8-inch touchscreen display with similar connectivity features.

Off-Road Capability: Passport’s Ruggedness vs Highlander’s All-Wheel Drive

The Honda Passport is designed with a focus on off-road capability. It features a rugged suspension, intelligent traction management system, and hill descent control. The Highlander, while not as off-road-oriented as the Passport, still offers all-wheel drive and a multi-terrain select system for enhanced traction on various surfaces.

Reliability and Resale Value: Highlander’s Proven Track Record vs Passport’s Rising Star

The Toyota Highlander has a well-established reputation for reliability and durability, with high ratings from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. The Honda Passport, being a newer model, has yet to establish a long-term reliability record, but Honda vehicles generally have a good reputation for reliability.

In terms of resale value, the Highlander typically holds its value better than the Passport, thanks to its strong brand reputation and proven track record.

Pricing and Value: Highlander’s Value Proposition vs Passport’s Premium Appeal

The Toyota Highlander has a starting price of $35,850 for the base L trim, while the top-of-the-line Platinum trim starts at $49,650. The Honda Passport, on the other hand, has a slightly higher starting price of $37,890 for the base Sport trim, with the top-of-the-line Elite trim starting at $49,060.

The Verdict: Highlander’s Versatility vs Passport’s Rugged Charm

The Toyota Highlander and Honda Passport are both excellent seven-seater SUVs with their unique strengths and appeals. The Highlander offers a more versatile and fuel-efficient package, with a spacious interior, a choice of powertrains including a hybrid option, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. The Passport, on the other hand, has a more rugged off-road capability, a sportier cabin, and a slightly lower starting price.

Ultimately, the choice between the Toyota Highlander and Honda Passport depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, versatility, and a proven track record, the Highlander is an excellent choice. If you desire a more rugged SUV with off-road capability and a sportier driving experience, the Passport may be a better fit.

Questions You May Have

Q: Which SUV has better fuel efficiency, the Highlander or the Passport?

A: The Toyota Highlander Hybrid offers superior fuel efficiency with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg city/35 mpg highway, compared to the Honda Passport‘s 19 mpg city/24 mpg highway.

Q: Which SUV has a more spacious interior, the Highlander or the Passport?

A: The Toyota Highlander has a slightly more spacious interior, with more legroom and cargo space than the Honda Passport.

Q: Which SUV has a better safety rating, the Highlander or the Passport?

A: Both the Toyota Highlander and Honda Passport have received excellent safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS. The Highlander has a slight edge in terms of standard safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense 2.0.